GALLERY 2024
Jack Block Park Pier Proposal
Water serves as a vital need for everyday life. Due to the unique landscape, the connection between land and water has been a large part of Seattle's ecosystem and culture. The surrounding water landscape is used as a means of transportation, trade, a source of food, and recreation. Cities and people often congregate around bodies of water for both practical and inexplicable reasons. Water brings a sense of calm and connection that leaves us naturally drawn to being near it.
Jack Block Park is a unique 15 acre park in the West Seattle neighborhood situated on the northwest corner of the Port of Seattle's Terminal 5. The area was contaminated with creosote by a wood treatment plan and shipbuilding facility that previously occupied the site of the park. The park opened to the public in 2011 after an environmental cleanup effort that included the removal of contaminated mud and wood pilings (Source: Port of Seattle). The park is a unique site that blends industrial sculpture and hardscape with the natural waterfront and a unique view of Seattle's skyline.
The timber pier of Jack Block Park has been closed since 2020 due to areas of degradation. The role of the 2024 studio was to reimagine the role of the pier and how it interacts with the Seattle waterfront. The students worked in groups of 2-3 to propose a new pier design for Jack Block Park.
DESIGN PRINCIPLES & CONCEPT MODELS
Students were asked to reflect on 2-3 design principles and to turn these principles into a 3D object using folded paper. This was a conceptual exercise to learn more about model making and think about design.
Team 1
Team 1 focused on an approach to the site by foot and designed the use to be primarily used in the Summer by swimmers, tourists, families, bikers, runners, and kayakers. The primary activity is to relax while enjoying the great views and warm Seattle Summer weather. The users interact with nature while hearing the waves crashing, boats honking, and other surrounding chatter. Team 1 argued that the parking lot not be expanded to encourage walkers and bikers. They also pushed for environmental clean-up activities to preserve a healthy environment.
Team 2
Team 2 focused on the traditional pier activity of fishing and swimming. The experience is peaceful and scenic, with added benches to encourage rest. The pier is wider to encourage more people and activity. Sustainable strategies include reusing wood materials, incorporating a nearby rain garden and bioswale, and include solar energy on the shade structures to power the motion sensor lights.
